WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit (WACPRU)

The WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit (WACPRU) is a newly established entity that is jointly funded by Curtin University’s Faculty of Health Sciences, the Cancer Council of Western Australia, and Curtin’s School of Psychology.

At least one-third of WA’s cancer diagnoses each year are preventable. The primary purpose of WACPRU is to build the evidence base relating to cancer prevention through improvements in lifestyle behaviours that are known to be associated with cancer risk. The main behavioural areas of focus include nutrition, physical activity, alcohol, tobacco, and sun exposure. WACPRU’s work is carried out in the form of formative research, evaluation research, publication, expert advice, representation, and advocacy. Populations of particular interest include disadvantaged groups, children, young people, and the elderly.